November 22, 2010

Quinn rehires top aide who resigned over ethics breach

Gov. Pat Quinn rehired a former top aide who resigned following ethics violations that became an issue in the governor's race, his office said today.

Jerry Stermer, who served as chief of staff before resigning in August, will return to Quinn's administration on Nov. 29 in the role of senior adviser. He will make $125,000 a year.

Stermer, a longtime education advocate, will consult with Quinn on issues such as healthcare, education, social services and the budget.

"He is coming back at the governor's request," said Quinn spokeswoman Ashley Cross. "He has a wealth of experience and knowledge in these areas and has a long history of working with legislators and others that make him the best fit."

Stermer resigned several days after former Executive Inspector General James Wright found he improperly sent e-mails to Quinn campaign aides using a state account. Quinn fired Wright the same day he was briefed about the violations, though Quinn has said the timing was a coincidence. Quinn dismissed Wright in the morning, but said he did not read the report until that evening.

All 50 aldermen on the Chicago City Council had to file paperwork earlier this year detailing their outside income and gifts. The Tribune took that ethics paperwork and posted the information here for you to see. You can search by ward number or alderman's last name.

The Cook County Assessor's office has put together lists of projected median property tax bills for all suburban towns and city neighborhoods. We've posted them for you to get a look at who's paying more and who's paying less.

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